Quinn plan to be horse whisperer

Richard Quinn, who retired as a jockey in June with more than 2,600 winners worldwide, is to become a horse psychologist.

The Scot, who marries television presenter Alex Hammond in the New Year, has been studying under Monty Roberts, celebrated American 'Horse Whisperer' famous for his innate empathy with horses.

Quinn has completed more than half of a course run by Roberts' European lieutenant, the former amateur rider Kelly Marks.

It was a shock when the 45-year-old Quinn quit in the summer.

He said: "I'd held a jockey's licence for 28 years and it was time for another challenge.

"I'd had a successful career (winning Classics on Snurge and Love Divine) and I felt I wanted to give something back to the horse population that was worthwhile.

"It's all a question of communicating with horses. I have learned so much in the past six months and I think this course should be taught at the apprentice schools. It would help riders to have a deeper understanding of their mounts.

"There is very little money in it — that is not my motivation at all. All trainers have different methods of getting the best out of their horses and I hope to help them. I wish I had known what I know now 20 years ago.

"I've met Monty Roberts several times but Kelly is in charge of the courses over here. They would be useful for anyone connected with horses, not just racehorses. You get to know all about their behaviour, their nutrition and the horse as an athlete. It is fascinating stuff but I won't have completed the course for another couple of months."

Quinn faces finishing the next phase of his training with his leg in plaster. On Tuesday he fractured his tibia in two places while riding the Nicky Henderson-trained chaser Scots Grey with the Old Berks Hunt.

Quinn was Paul Cole's retained jockey for 18 years before going freelance and then landing the job with Henry Cecil. He partnered 2,190 winners in the UK and a further 500 in 21 other countries.